Two public institutions in Serbia have recently reached significant milestones in their Common Assessment Framework (CAF) implementation, reaffirming their commitment to continuous improvement, organisational excellence, and improved public service delivery.

What makes these achievements particularly noteworthy is that both institutions are already engaged in their second CAF implementation cycle, demonstrating that quality management is not a one-time exercise but an ongoing process of learning, development, and innovation.

The Human Resource Management Service of the Government of the Republic of Serbia (SUK) launched its second CAF cycle in February 2025 with the support of the Ministry of Public Administration and Local Self-Government (MDULS).

Last week, the institution successfully completed the third CAF workshop, marking the conclusion of the self-assessment phase and paving the way for the implementation of a new three-year Action Plan aimed at further strengthening organizational performance.

Key priorities identified for the upcoming period include strengthening and promoting the institution’s vision, mission and values, establishing systematic onboarding and knowledge-transfer mechanisms, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual support, advancing transparent and merit-based human resource management practices, and expanding corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The successful completion of the self-assessment process reflects the dedication of the CAF Self-Assessment Group, coordinated by Jovana Stojadinović and supported by its members. 

Special recognition was also extended to CAF trainers Slaven Bukarica and Marija Petrović from MDULS, as well as the institution’s leadership, for their strong commitment and support throughout the process.

At the same time, the Republic Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes continues to demonstrate its commitment to organizational excellence through the launch of its second CAF implementation cycle, supported by ReSPA.

As the first institution in Serbia to receive the prestigious CAF Effective User Label three years ago, the Agency has established itself as a leading example of quality management in public administration. The new CAF cycle will enable the institution to reassess its strengths, identify new areas for improvement, and further enhance the services it provides to citizens and stakeholders.

Particular appreciation was expressed to Director Ivica Lazović, whose leadership has been instrumental in driving the institution’s quality management efforts. The active engagement of team members has also played a crucial role in advancing the process.

The workshop was further enriched by an inspiring session delivered by Goran Pastrović on public sector processes and human-centred design, and Slaven Bukarica from ReSPA, who once again provided valuable guidance and expertise.

The experiences of both institutions demonstrate that excellence in public administration is not a destination but a continuous journey. Through committed leadership, engaged employees, and a strong culture of learning and improvement, they are setting a positive example for public administrations across Serbia and the Western Balkans.

Their progress highlights the transformative potential of the CAF model in supporting institutions to strengthen performance, enhance service quality, and build more responsive, effective, and citizen-oriented public administrations.